At the western end of kangaroo island there is a tiny signpost announcing the Kelly Hill Caves.
A short walk through the bush car park brings you to their visitors centre where you can book a guided tour of the caves. They stock basic supplies, ice creams and tea and coffee. If you need to wait a while for the tours (they are generally on the hour at quarter past, for example 'Adventure Caving' at 2.15pm daily) there's some covered tables, chairs and picnic areas where you can share lunch before entering the caves.
A hilly 200metre walk brings you to the top of the cave entrance, where your guide will give you a brief discussion on the history of the caves.
You can leave your bags and coats in the locked room and then descend into the caves with your guide.
Steep stairs lead downwards into the belly of the caves where you will witness extensive caves with stalactites and stalagmites. All lit up now for your viewing pleasure.
Our guide was an avid caver and shared stories of the adventures and discoveries he had taken, he talked to us about what it was like originally finding the caves and how difficult it was then to get in and out.
To demonstrate, he then flicked all the lights off leaving us in total darkness. You could imagine how easy it would have been to get lost and how amazing the scene would be that unfolded once the lights were brought in.
For those feeling more adventurous, after you have taken the cave tour, you can book in for the adventure caving tour (must be over 8 years old).
You'll slip and slide on your belly, crawling through caves and tunnels for the real caving experience.
Cave tours and adventure caving (adventure caving tours include the price of the cave tour and bookings are required) are: Adults $15/$60 Concession $12/$48 Children $9/$39, Family $41/$164.
Alternatively a Kangaroo Island Pass is available which allows unlimited entry over 12 months to Seal Bay Tours, Kelly Hill Caves, Cape Border Light Station, Cape Willougby Light Station, Flinders Chase National Park: Adult $64, Concession $51, Children $39, Family $17 (companion cards accepted).
Purchase your pass online or at any of the sites.
